A Journey to OZ: Exploring the Magic of “Wicked”

In this episode, I dive deep into the enchanting world of the musical "Wicked." From its origins on Broadway to my own personal obsession with it, I recount the magical journey that this show has taken me on. Join me as I share the incredible stories of the crazy things I've done to express my love for "Wicked," from collecting all the merchandise to staging my own one person Wicked extraveganza. You don't want to miss my crazy story of my obsession with this musical. Whether you're a die-hard fan like me or simply curious about the allure of this iconic musical, this episode promises a wickedly good time!

Transcript

Welcome everyone to another episode of The Music In Me. I'm your host, Terry, and I'm absolutely thrilled to have you here. If you're new, thanks for joining in, and if you're a returning listener, welcome back to the show that celebrates the music, that speaks to our souls. Before we dive into today's topic, a quick reminder to connect with me on social media.

You'll find all the links in the show notes. Oh, and did I mention. It's my birthday week. And actually, as I'm recording this, it is actually my birthday. I'm recording this on Monday, which is also Labor Day, but today is my birthday, and I thought, hmm, I might as well record a podcast on my birthday. I mean, it's something I love to do.

And this subject that we're going to talk about today is one of my favorite subjects of all time. So what better day to record than my actual birthday? Speaking of my birthday, I told you my birthday is today on Labor Day. So my birthday this year is on an actual holiday. Although I treat my birthday as a holiday all of the time, it doesn't matter how old I get, I have always wanted to celebrate my birthday.

I did have a family celebration Saturday with my sister and her two kids and my niece's husband and my mom and dad. And that was special. My niece actually wrote me a song, which was really sweet. And I got a lot of nice gifts. We had a cake, an ice cream, and a barbecue, which is typical for Labor Day. But since I actually have to work later today, you know, we celebrated on Saturday.

And then last night I had to work and my lovely, lovely friends at work who some of them do listen to this podcast. So shout out to all of you. They threw me a little celebration last night. They sing me happy birthday and got me some of my favorite treats and it was really, really sweet and I felt so loved and appreciated.

So I appreciate all of you. If you're listening, I love you all. Thank you. Thank you so much. Since it is my birthday week, I wanted to do something special for this episode. So I thought what better time to share something that's really really meaningful to me and something that I love so much. So today We're going to talk about my favorite Broadway musical.

And if you can't tell if you're watching this video from the background, but my favorite musical is Wicked. I have a bunch of Wicked books and posters up behind me. I will be posting this video eventually on YouTube. So look out for that. I just have to, you know, edit it. It'll take a little longer than the audio version.

But like I said, we're going to talk about Wicked today and Wicked is my favorite musical, which I mentioned that last week. So I can talk about this for a long time, but I will try to keep it under an hour. Fingers crossed for that because I can talk forever about Wicked. On today's episode, we're going green and it's not about the environment.

No, we're diving into the enchanting world of the musical Wicked. From its origins as a novel to its dazzling Broadway production, this show has captured hearts worldwide, including mine. I'll be giving you the lowdown on its backstory, characters, the creative geniuses behind it, and of course, why it's not just my obsession, but my favorite musical of all time.

Oh, and you'll want to stick around to hear about the crazy things I've done to profess my love for this extraordinary production. I'm a little bit obsessive when it comes to things I love, so that's going to be interesting and you'll definitely want to stick around for that. Before that though, I'm going to go into a little background of the show itself and what the story is about and stuff like that.

So this is a little in depth view of my favorite musical, Wicked. Before we get carried away by the emerald magic, let's start at the very beginning. Wicked wasn't always a Broadway sensation. It started as a book. A novel by Gregory Maguire spun a captivating alternate take on the land of Oz, and eventually it found its way to the stage, enchanting audiences with its unique retelling of the Wizard of Oz story.

The story behind Gregory Maguire's book Wicked and its transformation into a successful musical on Broadway is quite fascinating. Wicked is a reimagining of L. Frank Baum's classic novel. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, focusing on the perspective of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and her complex relationship with Glinda the Good Witch.

Gregory Maguire published Wicked, The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, in 1995. The novel explores the backstory of Elphaba, aka the Wicked Witch of the West, exploring her childhood, education, friendships, and eventual transformation into the infamous Wicked Witch. Maguire's novel is known for its subversion of the original Oz narrative, offering a more nuanced look at the characters and their motivation.

The book delves into themes of morality, Power, discrimination, and the consequences of one's actions. The journey of Wicked from book to Broadway began when Hollywood became interested in making the book into a film. Producer David Stone of Universal Studios acquired the rights to adapt the novel into a musical.

Mark Platt The head of production at Universal was having trouble finding a screenplay that worked, however, but Stephen Schwartz, a renowned composer and lyricist, learned about the novel while he was on vacation, and he thought it would make a great musical. Not an animated musical, like they originally planned.

but a Broadway musical, so he flew to Hollywood to convince Mark Platt to turn the story into a Broadway musical. And Platt thought this was a great idea. Schwartz was then brought on to create the music and the lyrics. Schwartz was already known for writing the lyrics to such musicals as Godspell. and Pippin.

And for movies such as Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and The Prince of Egypt. All movies that I love and musicals that I love. Now, all they needed was someone to write the book for the musical. Winnie Holtzman, the TV script writer of shows like 30 something and My So Called Life, was brought on to write the book for Wicked.

So the team was set. The musical was coming to life. The workshops for the musical began in 2000, and they did this in LA and not the traditional New York, like most Broadway musicals, Stephanie J. Block was brought on to read for the role of Alphabet and Kristen Chenoweth to read for the role of Glenda.

In 2003, wicked had its first full production in San Francisco. The show had mixed reviews. Some of the things were restructured and changed before heading to Broadway. Some of the roles were also recast because it was thought that they needed an established actress to play the role of Elphaba. So, unfortunately, Stephanie J.

Block was out. and she ended up being the understudy for Elphaba. Eventually, though, she did get to play Elphaba on the U. S. National Tour and she did make it to Broadway and got to star on Broadway as Elphaba. So, good for her because she's an awesome, awesome actress. Joe Mantello was brought on to direct the musical.

The musical opened on Broadway at the Gershwin Theater. on October 30th, 2003, and I don't think it was a coincidence that it opened around Halloween because it's a pretty Halloween ish musical, if you ask me. You know, Halloween ish. It's about witches. Witches. Wizard of Oz. Witches. So, Halloween. Wicked retained the core elements of Maguire's novel.

but adapted and condensed the story to fit the format of a musical. It delved deeper into the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda, showing how their differing perspectives shaped their paths. So what's the story, you ask? Well, most people have seen The Wizard of Oz, so you would know some of the characters, but the musical is more of a...

backstory into these characters that we love so much. As the tagline says, so much happened before Dorothy dropped in. Wicked follows the journey of two unlikely friends, Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the future Witch of the West. The Good Witch. But there's more to it than black and white.

The musical's plot weaves its threads through themes of friendship, identity, and societal expectations, adding a fascinating twist to the traditional Wizard of Oz narrative. The musical explores the backstory of the characters from Oz, particularly the relationship between Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, who later becomes known as the Wicked Witch of the West.

Did you know that they used to be friends? They used to be friends. Cool, huh? They used to be friends, then they were enemies, then they were friends, you know. It went on and on, but that's all in the story. You have to see it to see how it plays out. The story is set in the land of Oz and begins before Dorothy's arrival, as I mentioned.

It focuses on the unlikely friendship between Glinda and Elphaba, two young women who meet as roommates at Shiz University. Glinda is popular and beautiful, while Elphaba is born with emerald green skin. and is initially seen as an outcast. As the story unfolds, Elphaba shows a strong affinity for magic, and she becomes involved in political matters, as she questions the discriminatory policies of Aza's government, led by the wizard.

She becomes an advocate for the rights of talking animals. who are treated as second class citizens. Glinda and Elphaba's friendship undergo various ups and downs, especially when they both fall for the same man, Fiyero. Despite their differences, they ultimately maintain a deep bond. As Elphaba becomes increasingly aware of the corruption and deceit, within the wizard's regime.

She becomes more disillusioned and takes on the role of the Wicked Witch of the West. The story explores her transformation from a misunderstood young woman to the iconic villain we know from The Wizard of Oz. It also explores other characters that we love such as the Tin Man. the scarecrow, and the cowardly lion.

And we find out how they become these characters that we all know and love. I was lucky enough to see all this play out on stage and it was truly magical. Ooh, I get chills. Of course, none of this magic would be possible without the incredible cast and characters. From the original cast that breathed life into these roles, to the iconic characters themselves, I'll be exploring the dynamic world of personalities that make Wicked so unforgettable.

The musical has gained immense popularity for its captivating storyline, memorable songs, and talented cast. While the specific cast members can vary depending on the production and the time period, I can certainly provide you with an overview of some of the notable characters and the actors who have portrayed them in the past.

First off, we have Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. Elphaba is the central character in Gregory Maguire's novel, Wicked. and the broadway musical adaptation. She's a complex and misunderstood figure. Born with emerald green skin, she faces discrimination from society due to her appearance. Despite this, Elphaba is incredibly intelligent, fiercely independent, and driven by a strong sense Her journey explores themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of societal prejudice.

Elphaba's transformation from a misunderstood outcast into the wicked witch of the West challenges our preconceptions about good and evil and invites us to empathize with the character often perceived as a villain in the classic tale of the witch. The Wizard of Oz. In the original Broadway production, Idina Menzel originated the role of Elphaba and earned widespread acclaim for her powerful vocals and emotional performance.

Other notable actresses who have portrayed Elphaba include Shoshanna Bean, Stephanie J Block, Jessica Voss, Christine Dreyer, and Rachel Tucker. Now, I was lucky enough to see three of the people who have played Elphaba on Broadway, and I've actually met Two of them in real life, so that's pretty cool. I met Christine Dreyer in St.

Louis when I saw her in Waitress. She's one of those people I met at the stage door that night. I've also met Jessica Vosk in Atlanta when I saw her in a show called Becoming Nancy. She's my favorite Broadway actor, by the way. I s Still can't believe that I actually met her. It's still shocking. And I've actually seen her live twice.

I've seen her once in Becoming Nancy in Atlanta. And then I've seen her at the Muny just last year, I believe, in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. So she's amazing. Amazing, amazing, amazing. And she is hilarious. If you don't know her, you should follow her. She is hilarious and I love her so much.

I was lucky enough to see the original Elphaba, Idina Menzel, in concert in St. Louis. I didn't get to meet her, but I will. I have very high hopes. Next we have Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. Glinda, another prominent character in Wicked, is the polar opposite of Elphaba in many ways. She is depicted as a bubbly, popular and somewhat shallow student at Shiz University.

Initially, Glinda and Elphaba have a rocky relationship due to their differences, but over time they form a deep and enduring friendship. Glinda's character arc is marked by growth as she matures from a self absorbed young woman into a compassionate and wise figure. Her kindness and sense of duty ultimately lead her to make difficult choices that shape the story's outcome.

Glinda's character adds a layer of complexity to Wicked, illustrating the transformative power of friendship and the capacity for change in even the most seemingly strange Superficial individuals, Kristen Chenoweth originated the role on Broadway and received praise for her comedic timing and charismatic portrayal and Kristen Chenoweth is amazing by the way.

I also love her, but I love a lot of Broadway actors. Glinda's friendship with Elphaba is a central part of the story and her character. her undergo significant growth. I didn't really like her at the beginning of the musical because I thought she was a spoiled brat, but she changed significantly throughout the story, so I ended up loving her in the end.

Other actresses who have taken on the role include Megan Hilty, Katie Rose Clark, Kara Lindsay, and Amanda Jane Cooper. Fierro Tigalar, or Tigalar. I'm not sure how to say his last name but Fiero. Fiero is a significant character in Wicked also. He's initially introduced as a carefree and popular student at Shiz University.

He's known for his charm and casual approach to life. Fiero's encounter with Elphaba sparks a profound transformation in him. As the story unfolds, he undergoes a journey of self discovery, questioning the societal norms he once embraced. Fiyero's character is marked by his evolving sense of responsibility and his willingness to challenge authority for the sake of justice.

His complex relationship with both Elphaba and Glinda adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the theme of personal growth and the power of love to inspire change. In the original Broadway production, Fiyero was played by Norbert Leo Butz, and other actors who have portrayed Fiyero include Aaron Tveit, Adam Lambert, Joey McIntyre, and Derek Klena.

Those guys are all amazing too. I know I say that about everybody, but I mean, Broadway actors are, I mean, they're so talented. They're triple threats. You know, they can sing, dance, act, everything I've always wanted to be, but they're amazing. The next character we have is the Wizard of Oz. The Wizard in Wicked is a central character and a key player in the story's political intrigue.

Initially portrayed as a benevolent and all powerful leader, he governs the land of Oz with a charismatic facade. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that his role relies on manipulation and manipulation. and deception, particularly his exploitation of animals and minority groups like the munchkins.

The wizard's character is a commentary on the corrupting influence of power and the moral ambiguity that often surrounds authority figures. His actions ultimately catalyzed the events of the story and forced the other characters, including Elphaba and Glinda, to confront their own beliefs and principles in the face of his tyranny.

Joel Grey originated the role on Broadway, and Joel Grey, by the way, if you didn't know, is Jennifer Grey from Dirty Dancing's Father. So that's pretty cool. Joel Grey is also amazing. I love him. But I know. I say that about everybody I've mentioned. Other actors who have portrayed the wizard include George Hearn and Tom McGowan.

Next we have Madame Morrible. Madame Morrible is a character in Wicked who serves as, she's the headmistress of Shiz University. and she later becomes a prominent figure in Oz's political landscape. She possesses a sharp intellect and an unscrupulous thirst for power. Initially, Morrible takes an interest in Elphaba's unique abilities, but manipulates her for her own political gain.

As the story progresses, her character exemplifies The Corrupting Influence of Power and Ambition, as she aligns herself with the oppressive wizard's regime. Madam Morrible's character underscores the theme of moral ambiguity and the lengths some individuals will go to achieve their goals, even at the expense of others.

Actresses like... Carol Shelley, Carol Kane, and Judy Kaye have portrayed Madame Morrible. I don't know much about those actresses, but, um, Carol Shelley was the original Broadway Madame Morrible. So she's cool. Next we have a character named Bok. Bok is a character in Wicked who initially appears as a lovestruck Munchkin student at Shiz University.

He becomes infatuated with Glinda. And this unrequited love. fuels his journey throughout the story. Bach's character arc is marked by his transformation from an innocent and kind hearted young man into someone who makes difficult choices under the influence of external pressures. His story highlights themes of unrequited love, Sacrifice and the Consequences of Societal Expectations.

Bach's character adds a layer of depth to the narrative as he navigates the complexities of his feelings while trying to find a place in the changing world. In the original Broadway production, Bach was portrayed by Christopher Fitzgerald, who, by the way, was also in Waitress. Next, we have Nessaros. Thra.

She is the tragically beautiful younger sister of Elphaba. And she holds the title of the Wicked Witch of the East. So she's the one the house fell on in the Wizard of Oz. That was Nessarose. Poor, poor Nessarose. Nessarose. is born with a physical disability, having been born without the use of her legs.

Despite her disability, she possesses a strong will and a determined personality. Initially shy and sheltered, she becomes increasingly powerful. and assertive as the story progresses. Nessarose is deeply dependent on her magical abilities and her father's wealth due to her disability, which leads to complex relationships with those around her, including her sister Elphaba.

and the other characters in the story. Her journey explores themes of power, control, and the impact of one's circumstances on one's choices and identity. In the original Broadway production of Wicked, the character of Nessa Rose was played by Michelle Federer. Other actresses include Christy Candler. and Jenna Lee Green.

Last, we have a character named Dr. Dillamond. Dr. Dillamond is a significant character in Wicked. He's a kindly and bookish goat who serves as a professor at Shiz University. So he's one of those talking animals that I was talking about earlier. He becomes a symbol of the discrimination and oppression faced by talking animals in Oz.

Dillamond's character highlights themes of prejudice. and inequality. His tragic story serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of discrimination and the importance of fighting for equality and justice. Dillamond's character adds depth and emotional weight to the narrative, prompting the other characters, particularly Alphaba to confront the injustices in their society.

He was originally portrayed by William Eumanns on Broadway. Wicked possesses a rich and talented ensemble cast that brings to life the characters and the compelling storyline. The musical's exploration of friendship, Identity and the nature of good and evil has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a beloved and enduring production in the world of musical theater.

But let's not forget the brilliant minds that make the stage come alive. The creative team behind the musical, the mesmerizing songs, and those standout numbers that give us goosebumps. The songs in the musical Wicked play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative and delving into the complexities of the characters.

From the enchanting Defying Gravity to the poignant For Good, each song serves as a window into the emotional journey of Elphaba and Glinda. Through these songs, Wicked explores themes of friendship, identity, power, and the consequences of one's choices, weaving them into the fabric of the story with emotional depth and resonance.

Wicked features a captivating collection of songs that contribute to the musical's rich storytelling. I'm going to go over each song in order. and tell you what part they play in the story, as well as which character sings them. So, it's a lot, so here we go. No One Mourns the Wicked is the opening number of the musical Wicked.

It sets the stage for the story by depicting the citizens of the land of Oz over the apparent death of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba. Ugh, sad. That's my least favorite part. I don't like it when she's dead. I told you she's my favorite character. I do not like it when she dies. I hate that song in The Wizard of Oz, Ding Dong the Witch is Dead.

I know they're talking about, you know, the Wicked Witch of the East, but still, I don't like it. Anyway, back to No One Mourns the Wicked. The song is an upbeat and catchy ensemble piece that introduces... the audience to a whimsical world of Oz and the prejudice against the misunderstood Elphaba. Through its lively choreography and clever lyrics, No One Mourns the Wicked provides a contrast between public perception and the untold story of Elphaba, laying the foundation for the musical's exploration of themes like perception, prejudice, and the complexity of good and evil.

Dear Old Schiz is an energetic and nostalgic ensemble song in the musical Wicked. Sung by the students at Shiz University, it serves as a spirited introduction to the school where many of the characters, including Elphaba and Glinda, begin their journey. The song portrays the excitement and anticipation of the university life while highlighting the contrasting personalities and backgrounds of the students.

With its lively melody and choreography, Dear Olde Shiz effectively establishes the setting and the diverse group of characters who will play pivotal roles in the story's development. The Wizard and I is a captivating solo sung by Elphaba, the central character of Wicked. This song is a pivotal moment in the musical as it marks Elphaba's arrival in the Emerald City and her aspirations to meet the Wizard of Oz, believing he can help her achieve acceptance and change her life.

This song is filled with hope and determination and it showcases Elphaba's powerful voice and her desire to make a difference. The Wizard and I is a compelling introduction to the character and sets the stage for her complex journey of self discovery and transformation throughout the musical.

Basically, the theme of Wicked seems to be self discovery for all the characters. So that's cool. What is this feeling is a lively and humorous duet in the musical Wicked, performed by Glinda and Elphaba. But it's anything but a love song. Instead, the two characters express their intense, mutual dislike for each other upon first meeting at Shiz University.

They hated each other. The song's witty lyrics and catchy melody underscore their rivalry and initial animosity, setting the stage for the complex relationship that develops between them throughout the show. It's a playful and memorable moment that contrasts with the more emotional songs in the musical.

It's a hilarious song. I love it. And also, background. I used to have this internship where I worked with a woman who was, you know, a bit witchy, we'll call her. I did not like her. She was mean. But I used to listen to this song before I went to work with her because, you know, it was describing loathing and I really did not like that woman.

She was not nice and she said I wasn't creative or talented and That is just wrong because here I do have a podcast now, so, heh. Dr. Dillamond, the talking goat professor in Wicked, sings a poignant and thought provoking song titled Something Bad. This melancholic song reflects Dillamond's concern and sorrow over the increasing discrimination and oppression faced by talking animals in the land of Oz.

Through the song's haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, Diliman's character becomes a symbol of the injustice and prejudice that exist within the society depicted in the musical. Something Bad serves as a powerful commentary on themes of discrimination and intolerance. adding depth to the story and shedding light on the darker aspects of the world of Oz.

Dancing Through Life is a lively and carefree song from the musical Wicked. It's performed by Fiero, the charismatic and carefree student at Shiz University, as he encourages his fellow students to embrace a carefree attitude and Live life without worry or responsibility. The song's upbeat melody and lyrics capture the essence of Fiyero's carefree spirit and his philosophy of enjoying the present moment.

However, the song also serves as a contrast to the deeper and more complex themes that unfold in the story, as it hints at the consequences of avoiding responsibility and the complexities of growing up. Popular is a standout song sung by the character Glinda, the good witch. It's a witty and comical number where she imparts her wisdom on how to be popular to her friend Elphaba.

With catchy lyrics and a playful melody, the song captures Glinda's bubbly personality. and the contrast between her and Elphaba's characters. It's a memorable moment in the show that showcases Glinda's desire for admiration and adds a touch of humor to the story's complex themes of friendship and identity.

That song is hilarious, and if you see it live, it's even more hilarious. I'm Not That Girl is a poignant and introspective song sung by Elphaba. It reflects her feelings of unrequited love for Fiyero, who is romantically involved with her friend Glinda. The song captures the bittersweet essence of Elphaba's unfulfilled longing.

and the realization that she doesn't fit society's standards of beauty and popularity. The melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics convey the emotional depth of the character and contribute to the musical's exploration of love, self acceptance, and the complexities of relationships. One Short Day is a visually stunning and upbeat song sung by Elphaba and Glinda as they arrive in the Emerald City.

It captures their excitement and awe at the dazzling, emerald hued metropolis. The song's lively choreography and jubilant melody showcase the splendor of the Emerald City. and the character's newfound sense of freedom and adventure. One short day is a pivotal moment in the musical, symbolizing the temporary escape from their troubles and the beginning of their transformative journey within the complex world of Oz.

A Sentimental Man is a reflective and somewhat manipulative solo song performed by The Wizard in the musical Wicked. In this song, The Wizard reminisces about his past and how he managed to maintain his powerful and enigmatic image over the years. Through the song's introspective lyrics, and the wizard's charismatic performance, the audience gains insight into his character and motivations.

It's a key moment that sheds light on the wizard's complex personality and his role in the story's unfolding events, adding depth to the narrative. Defying gravity is the climactic and emotionally charged anthem. It's sung by Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, as she defies societal norms and takes flight for the first time on her broomstick.

The song symbolizes her liberation from the constraints of conformity and her determination to embrace her true self, even if it means defying the world. The powerful lyrics, soaring melody, and Idina Menzel's stunning vocals make this song an unforgettable moment in the musical, encapsulating themes of empowerment, self discovery, and the courage to stand up against adversity.

Thank Goodness is a pivotal song in the musical Wicked. performed by Glinda as she grapples with her changing circumstances. As she becomes the beloved ruler of Oz, Glinda reflects on her journey from a superficial popular girl to a more empathetic and thoughtful individual. The song captures her inner conflict.

and the complexities of her character set against a melodic and introspective backdrop. Thank Goodness is a moment of self discovery and growth for Glinda, underscoring the musical's themes of identity, friendship, and the blurred lines between good and wicked. Wonderful is a song in the musical Wicked sung by the wizard.

In this song, the wizard expresses his delight and awe at the various inventions and marvels he's created in the Emerald City. However, It becomes evident that his wonder is tinged with manipulation as he attempts to win over Elphaba and use her powers for his own gain. The song blends a sense of whimsy and deceit, shedding light on the wizard's character and his role in the story in the story's unfolding events.

Wonderful adds wizard's duplicious nature and the moral ambiguity present in the world of Oz. The I'm Not That Girl reprise is a heart wrenching and reflective moment in the musical Wicked. This reprise of the earlier song I'm Not That Girl is sung by Glinda, expressing her sorrow and resignation as she watches Fiyero, the man she loves, choose Elphaba over her.

The song captures Glinda's inner turmoil and her acceptance of the unrequited love between them. Its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics underscore the emotional depth of her character and add a layer of complexity to the relationships in the story, emphasizing the themes of love, sacrifice, and personal growth.

No good deed Elphaba is a pivotal song in the musical Wicked performed by Elphaba during a moment of intense despair and anger. After enduring betrayal and heartbreak, she unleashes her frustration and taps into her growing powers, inadvertently causing destruction. The song captures Elphaba's descent into darkness and her transformation into the iconic Wicked Witch of the West.

With its haunting melody, and emotional depth. No Good Deeds showcases the complex character arc of Elphaba and the consequences of her choices, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative of the show. March of the Witch Hunters is a dramatic and intense song in the musical Wicked. This powerful ensemble piece is performed by a group of ASEAN citizens who have turned against Elphaba, now known as the Wicked Witch of the West.

The song conveys the fear that have gripped the people of Oz as they march to hunt down and capture the perceived threat. With its foreboding melody and lyrics, March of the Witch Hunters showcases the escalating conflict in the story and highlights the dangerous consequences of prejudice and mob mentality.

For Good is a moving and heartfelt duet in the musical Wicked. performed by Elphaba and Glinda toward the end of the show. This emotionally charged song serves as a touching farewell as the two friends reflect on the impact they've had on each other's lives. With its touching lyrics and harmonious Melody for Good encapsulates the themes of friendship, growth, and the enduring connection between the characters.

It's a moment of reconciliation and gratitude, highlighting the profound transformation of their relationship throughout the story and leaving a lasting impression on both the characters and the audience. I know this song made me cry the first time I heard it, and I hadn't even seen the musical. But this song makes me cry, and it also makes me think about all of the friends in my life and how much they've taught me.

So it makes me appreciate all the people that I've met. The finale Song of Wicked is a powerful and emotionally resonant piece that ties together the musical's narrative threads. Titled For Good Reprise, it's a duet sung by Elphaba and Glinda as they reflect on the profound impact they've had on each other's lives and say their farewells.

This song is a moving conclusion to the story, emphasizing themes of friendship, growth, and the enduring connection between the two characters. The melody and lyrics of For Good Reprise leaves a lasting impression reminding the audience of the enduring bond formed amidst the complexities of Oz and ultimately celebrating the transformational power of their relationship.

Each song contributes to the character development, emotional depth, and thematic exploration, allowing Wicked to resonate with audiences by intertwining captivating melodies with intricate storytelling. And speaking of captivation, the design and visuals of Wicked are nothing short of mesmerizing. From the intricate set designs to the elaborate costumes and dazzling visual effects, let me tell you a few things about the visuals of the show.

One of the most iconic elements of Wicked is the vibrant and dazzling Emerald City. The set design Typically incorporates a mix of green tones and sparkling elements to create the magical and visually striking environment of the city. The musical features a stunning mechanical dragon that descends onto the stage during the song No One Mourns the Wicked.

This impressive piece of set design and engineering is a highlight of the production. Additionally, there are flying effects used for the characters like Elphaba during her iconic song Defying Gravity, which adds an element of awe and wonder to the performance. That is awesome to see in person, by the way.

The moment she flies up into the air, oh my god. While not directly related to the set design, the costumes play a significant role in creating the fantastical world of Wicked. There were over 400 custom made costumes in Wicked. Elphaba's iconic black witch costume and Glinda's glamorous outfits are carefully designed to reflect their personalities and journeys.

The visual effects team employs various techniques to depict magic on stage, such as using projections and lighting effects to show the use of spells and enchantments. The musical delves into themes of friendship, identity, power, and love. and the nature of good and evil. It provides an alternative perspective on the events in Oz, presenting Elphaba as a complex and sympathetic character rather than a one dimensional villain.

The story culminates in a dramatic confrontation between Elphaba and Glinda, revealing the truth behind the wizard's actions. and the origins of the wickedness attributed to Elphaba. Overall, Wicked is a captivating musical that reimagines the world of Oz and sheds light on the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West.

Wicked explores intricate themes that transcend the boundaries of good and evil, shedding light on the complexities of human nature, society, and power. At its core. The story delves into the nature of appearances, questioning the notion of who is truly wicked or virtuous in a world often driven by superficial judgments.

The narrative unfolds in the vividly reimagined land of Oz. Offering a critical commentary on political manipulation, propaganda, and the consequences of blind obedience to authority. As the lives of Elphaba, the misunderstood and green skinned witch of the West, and Glinda, the charming yet conflicted good witch of the North, intertwine, themes of friendship, rivalry, and personal growth emerge.

Through these characters, intricate relationships, Wicked examines how the choices we make in the face of adversity can shape our destinies, illustrating that the path of true understanding and acceptance is rarely as straightforward as it appears. But enough about the show itself. I know I've been going on for over...

30 minutes. I am so sorry, but I just wanted to talk about everything about Wicked. Let me share with you my personal journey with Wicked, how it came into my life, how it's impacted me, and why it holds such a special place in my heart. My love for Wicked first began when I heard about the book by Gregory Maguire about my all time favorite character, the Wicked Witch of the West.

and that it was being turned into a musical. One of my favorite movies is The Wizard of Oz, so I was excited to learn the backstory of the characters that I love so much, especially the witch. Wicked, the life and times of the Wicked Witch of the West, became my favorite book and it's still my favorite book.

I have read it multiple times and have loved it even more each time. Here was a book about the backstory of my favorite character of all time. How could I not read it? I loved the book so much and learned All about how the witch became wicked. I really connected to the character of Elphaba because she was like, she was an outcast and not treated very nicely, just like I was.

And the story also really empowered me because Elphaba rose above all that and became very powerful. Yes, she was thought of as wicked and did some bad things. But the way I see it, she was also following her heart in many aspects. She fights for causes she believes in, no matter what the consequences are.

You know, all this talk about the book and the musical and everything is making me want to read the book again. It's been a while since I've read it. I was hooked on the book, but I was also fascinated that it was going to be a musical. As you know, I love musicals, but didn't have a lot of opportunities to attend them live.

I bought the cast album from Wicked, so I could at least get familiar with the songs. And the great thing about cast albums is that I can get a sense of the story just by listening to the songs, if they're done right. The cast album to Wicked let me immerse myself into the story that I had read about.

The songs were so well written that I could feel the emotional journey of the characters. I really connected to the songs too. My favorite songs are The Wizard and I and Defying Gravity. I also have the behind the scenes book, so I could learn everything about the musical. So when I went and saw it live, I was fully prepared, and that was one of the greatest nights of my life.

I remember when my mom told me she got me tickets to Wicked as my Christmas present. I was so excited. that I couldn't talk about anything else for weeks. I just couldn't wait to see the show that I had become so obsessed with. Wicked was the second professional Broadway show that I got to see and it was by far my favorite.

It's still my favorite because it's the story of my favorite character of all time. It's also one of the reasons my favorite color is green. And my favorite gem is an emerald. I'm obsessed with it and maybe I took my obsession too far. I'll let you be the judge of that. Alright people, get ready for a laugh.

As I spill the emerald beans on some of the wackiest things I've done to express my love for this musical. Collecting merchandise, listening to the soundtrack on repeat, and yes, even staging my very own one person wicked extravaganza. You don't want to miss this part. It all started with the soundtrack.

I listened to the CD over and over and over again. I was so obsessed with the music that I even had to record it from my CD to a cassette so I could listen to it in my car. My car back then only had one of those tape decks in it. And instead of getting one of the adapters, I just thought it would be easier to...

You know, record the CD onto a cassette so I could keep it in my car and listen to it any time I was driving. I told you that I listened to it on repeat, but what I didn't tell you is that I listened to it on repeat for a whole entire year. Yes, every day for a whole entire year I listened to Wicked.

That's how obsessed I was with the music and the show. That's not even the strangest thing I did either. When I was home, I used to play the music all the time and I would belt out all the songs. I thought I sounded just like the original cast and I pretended I was in the show. Just listening to the cast album and singing was fun and all.

But I decided I wanted to act out the whole thing. So what did I do? I had that behind the scenes book and it had most of the script in it. But I did a little research online and found like bits and pieces. I pieced together my own script. I put it in a binder. I made it nice and pretty. And then when nobody was home, I would perform the whole musical by myself.

I played all the roles. I sang all the songs. And I did this several times up until I got to see the musical. Or when people We're home too much and I didn't have an opportunity to perform it anymore, which was sad because, you know, in fact, I really want to perform it right now. Hmm. Maybe after this.

Since I had acted out the whole show myself in my living room, I already knew most of the lines and exactly what was going to happen, which just made seeing the show that much more exciting. There were a few things that were different, but for the most part, I knew what was going to happen. I started collecting merchandise, including the poster, which is hanging on my wall right there.

there if you're watching the video. I have the songbook because I love to sing the songs and also I wanted to learn how to play them on the piano. Now I haven't learned how to play them on the piano yet because I have no patience, but you know, I have the book just in case. Most of my friends and family know how much I love Wicked, so they get me different things that are Wicked related.

Speaking of which, um, my niece's friend made me a nice little Wicked badge holder, which I now wear at my job. So it has Wicked on it, which is awesome. I was so excited. It's great. I have a Wicked journal, a Wicked charm bracelet. I have a beanie, which I'm wearing right now, that says Original Green Girl.

It's from Idina Menzel's store, and I have a lot of other items from the show. But for some reason, I did not have any shirts that were Wicked themed. Now that could be because... They didn't ever have my size, because I was a lot bigger back then. But, I bought a shirt just for recording this. You can't see it, but it says Wicked on it.

So I'm wearing that while I record this show. I'll definitely get more stuff, because I'm still obsessed with this musical, and it's been on Broadway for 20 years now. This is the 20th year anniversary. 2023. It came out in 2003. 20 years on Broadway and it's still going strong. I will never get tired of this show or the music.

I've also become obsessed with the people who have been in the show, like Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth. I've become obsessed with other shows. But Wicked is the one that I did the craziest things for. I mean, I was so obsessed that I acted out the entire show myself. Yes, I'm a little bit crazy.

Thank goodness I didn't do that with costumes, too. You know, that might have been a little over the top. Also a lot more work. As we wrap up our journey through Oz, let's take a moment to discuss the cultural impact Wicked had. and the strong, passionate fanbase and community it has brought together. This new perspective on a classic tale generated immense interest and curiosity among audiences.

The musical's strong emphasis on female characters and their complex relationships, particularly the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, resonated with audiences. The depth of their bond and their individual growth throughout the story highlighted themes of empowerment, friendship, and self discovery.

Wicked addresses social issues such as discrimination, prejudice, and the abuse of power. The story's exploration of how society perceives and treats those who are different struck a chord with audiences, leading to discussions about inclusion and acceptance. The musical soundtrack, composed by Stephen Schwartz, produced several iconic songs, including Defying Gravity, Popular, and For Good.

These songs not only became hits within the context of the show, but also outside the theater, contributing to the musical's lasting impact. Wicked developed a dedicated fan base that contributed to its cultural impact. Fans created fan art, fan fiction, and participated in discussions about the show's themes and characters.

The musical's online presence and fan community helped keep its popularity alive and well beyond its initial release. The success of the musical led to a variety of merchandise including cast recordings, DVDs, books, and clothing items. Additionally, the popularity of Wicked inspired a number of international productions and tours spreading its influence globally.

Wicked has had a notable influence on the landscape of musical theater. Its fusion of contemporary themes, catchy songs, and a reinterpretation of classic stories has inspired other productions to take similar approaches, leading to a trend of reimagining fairy tales and classic literature on stage.

Wicked attracted a wide range of audiences, including both traditional theater goers, and those who were new to the theater experience. Its universal themes and relatable characters helped bring in people who might not have been frequent theater attendees. In summary, Wicked made a lasting impact on popular culture by offering a fresh perspective on a beloved story, exploring relevant social issues, promoting female empowerment, and producing memorable music that resonated with a broad audience.

Its influence can be seen not only in the world of musical theater but also in the broader conversations about inclusivity and storytelling in modern media. I am so glad that I'm part of Wicked Mania. I will always be a part of Wicked Mania. And that's a wrap on today's episode of The Music and Me.

Thank you so much for joining me on this delightful journey through the emerald tinted world of Wicked. Remember, the magic of music is meant to be shared. So go ahead, introduce someone to your favorite tune this week. Don't forget to follow me on social media. And until next time, keep the music alive in your hearts.

Thank you for tuning in, and I can't wait to do this again next time. And I promise it's not going to be as long next time. I am so sorry that this is probably over an hour long. This is going to be my longest episode, probably. But I told you I could talk about Wicked all day long. So, mark your calendars, set those reminders, and get ready for a brand new episode of The Music and Me next week.

Until then, keep listening. Keep grooving and let the music in you continue to shine. Thank you and I'll see you soon. Once again, I want to thank everybody for all the birthday wishes and gifts and just the love they've shown me on my birthday this week. So thank you everybody. I love you all. See you next week.